Name: Oncidium Cholita Cuencana

Parents: Oncidium Lois Posey × Oncidium Avie Tower

Registration: Oncidium Cholita Cuencana was registered with the RHS by Ecuagenera in 2011; Ecuagenera is listed as both the registrant and originator.

Etymology: The genus name Oncidium derives from the Greek word for “swelling” or “bump” and refers to the callus on the lip. The grex name Cholita Cuencana refers to Cuenca in Ecuador.

Location/Growing Conditions: Based on its parentage, we recommend bright, filtered light, high humidity, and very good air circulation. The fine- to medium-grade orchid mix should be kept evenly and lightly moist during growth, while draining well. Cool to intermediate conditions of around 14–24 °C with a drop in temperature at night are especially favorable.

Description and Notes: Oncidium Cholita Cuencana produces pseudobulbs with elongated leaves and upright to arching, many-flowered inflorescences. Its parentage combines several highland-influenced Oncidium lines, resulting in striking, high-contrast flowers. We keep the plant regularly moist as new growths develop and reduce watering somewhat once they have matured, without allowing the pseudobulbs to shrivel significantly.